Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. 1. Wash the Vegetables: Rinse the tomatoes and mushrooms under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

1. 1. Dice the Tomatoes: Cut the medium tomatoes into small cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.

1. 1. Slice the Mushrooms: Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces.

1. 1. Chop the Basil: Gather fresh basil leaves and chop them finely.

1. 1. Mince the Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Toast the Baguette

1. 1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. 1. Slice the Baguette: Cut the whole grain baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices.

1. 1. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the sliced baguette on a baking sheet in a single layer.

1. 1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Brush one side of each baguette slice lightly with olive oil.

1. 1. Toast the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Flip the slices halfway through if you want them toasted on both sides.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

1. 1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

1. 1. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

1. 1. Add the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and browned. Stir occasionally.

1. 1. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste while cooking.

Step 4: Combine the Topping

1. 1. Mix the Ingredients: In the mixing bowl containing the diced tomatoes, add the sautéed mushrooms and garlic, and sprinkle in the chopped basil.

1. 1. Add Mozzarella: Gently fold in the diced or sliced fresh mozzarella cheese.

1. 1. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (if using). Mix everything gently to combine.

Step 5: Assemble the Bruschetta

1. 1. Remove the Baguette Slices from Oven: Once toasted, take the baking sheet out of the oven.

1. 1. Top the Bread: Spoon the tomato, cheese, and mushroom mixture generously onto each toasted slice of baguette.

1. 1. Serve Immediately: Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter. Drizzle with more olive oil or balsamic vinegar, if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer or light meal.

Enjoy!

Your Bruschett